Slumdog Millionaire's big Oscar splash is making waves in the world of fashion and beauty as the lovely and talented Slumdog star, Freida Pinto, begins to emerge as the next big, in-demand Hollywood actress. I featured Freida's colorful Oscar frock in yesterday's Academy Award Red Carpet recap; now, let's take it a step further! I'm riding high on the wave of Indian-inspiration!
Join me after the jump.


If you're an avid follower of Fashion Cents, you'll know that I adore my beautiful baubles from partner store, Amrita Singh.

Check out these great bangles I found! The fabric takes inspiration from the colorful traditional Sari fabrics of India.





Sari Bangle $60

Noor Earring $20

Amitra Singh's Bollywood collection features plenty of Indian inspired styles to chose from--from studs to dangling chandelier earrings modeled in the likeness of the ancient Indian craft of Kundan.


Kundan Chandelier Earring $80

Bring balance to your being with a Chakra balance kit. I love the Sandalwood scented Amethyst kit.


Chakra Balance Kit $14.95


India Printed Scarf $20 at Target.com

Love,
Loren

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[Images Via Stylefrizz.com]


TGIF! Check out these great photos I found online. These works of art are part of a really interesting project called Red Bull Art of Can, which has been in full development for a few years already. And it is what it sounds like it is-- a national exhibition with various artworks from Red Bull cans! Amazing. Learn more about the project here.

Love,

Loren

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[Image via WENN]

With my introduction of the new Motives Cosmetics by Loren Ridinger logo and products, it got me thinking about make-up and color. Then I saw the above photo from Lady Gaga.

If you aren't familiar with Lady Gaga, she has been a mainstay on the Billboard charts with her single, Just Dance from the album, The Fame. While there's no denying she can sing...and dance, what do you think about her lavender lips?

Lots of love,
Loren

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From ripped jeans, to studded jackets and vests, to leather jackets, cut out dresses, and chunky jewelry; the fashion industry, and celebrities alike, have been embracing the rock and roll eighties inspired trend. Designers like Alexander Wang, Balmain, William Rast, and Rag and Bone have all done a great job of executing this trend, making their looks sexy, yet refined. Check out these great pieces at "get them now" prices to infuse your wardrobe with some rocker styles.

[Anne Hatthaway Image via msn.com ]

More Rocker Chic looks after the jump.


RAG AND BONE RUNWAY

BALMAIN RUNWAY

ALEXANDER WANG RUNWAY

WILLIAM RAST RUNWAY

Black Skinny Ankle Pant $68 at Urban Outfitters

New York and Company  Leather Bomber Jacket $99.95

Ruffled Leather Jacket $149 at Victoria's Secret

Studded shoe $149 at Urban Outfitters

Leather Wrap Cuff $20 at Urban Outfitters

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She currently rules the billboard charts. What's next you might ask? As reported on PerezHilton.com, Taylor Swift is working on a line of cotton dresses for brand, L.E.I. If you aren't familiar with L.E.I., it is a brand made for Wal-Mart. Swift's new line will sell for around $14 and will be available next month. If you ask me, her dresses sound like a real bargain and qualify as a "fashion-centsible" pick.



According to Jack Gross, Group Chief Executive Officer at L.E.I., "we selected Taylor because she is someone with a good reputation and someone who we didn't have to be afraid of getting any sort of bad press." He also added that "she is so famous, but really so grounded. We liked her immediately."

And there you have it! Taylor Swift's foray into the world of being a fashion designer. If you aren't yet familiar with her music, check it out on iTunes!

Love,
Loren

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If you already have a classic black dress in your closet, turn it into a fashion statement with a bold necklace. Sophia Bush and Eva Mendes recently paired big statement necklaces with their neutral color dresses. So update your look and try a big necklace with your little black dress and look instantly chic. Here are some similar options of gorgeous necklaces at great prices. You can look like these celebrities without having to break your budget.

[Image via justjared.buzznet.com]






RJ Graziano Turquoise necklace $49.95

Statement Drop Necklace $99.95 at HSN.com


Himalayan Gem beaded necklace $24.90

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Granted, Barack Obama has been in high-demand, ever since he was elected President of the United States. Since then, we've heard a lot about Michelle Obama's choice in dresses. Doll maker, Ty, has decided to jump on the bandwagon and came up with the following dolls -- which closely resemble Barack and Michelle Obama's daughters, Malia and Sasha.


[Image via The Chicago Tribune]

What do you think of Marvelous Malia and Sweet Sasha? Were these dolls intended to be Sasha and Malia Obama?

Love,
Loren

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This spring you can show off your curves and accentuate your waist with an array of beautiful dresses in hourglass shapes. From ultra feminine to rocker chic, designers like Alexander Wang, Esteban Cortazar for Ungaro and Balmain showed sexy mini dresses that contour a woman’s curves.

Balmain Runway


UNGARO Runway



ALEXANDER WANG Runway

This spring, sexy is back with this silhouette! It is fresh and feminine. So stop hiding your figure under those big puffy dresses, and check out these dresses at great prices.



French Connection Berry Jacquard Dress $198 at Bloomingdale's



Scribbly Plaid dress $69.50 at Express

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So many women love their UGG boots, they are warm and comfortable and perfect for the weekend. But during the week and for work you need a great winter boot that is comfortable and warm yet work appropriate. You need a boot that is versatile, that you can wear with tights and a skirt or over your skinny pants. Here are some options of warm boots that will compliment your work attire.




[Annie Women's Moonglow Boots (in brown or black) available for around $50 from Endless.com]


[Annie Women's Arctic Boot (in brown or black) available for around $50 from Endless.com]


Right now, purchase $100 or more at Endless.com and get $20 off (deductions made at checkout).

For those that still want a pair of UGG boots for when you're not at work, The Walking Company is offering free shipping when you spend $100 on your order!

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This Spring, geometric prints were seen all over the runways. Designers like Dries Van Noten, Marni, and Philip Lim, all showed their interpretations of this trend. With black and white diamond patterns, colorful circle pattern skirts, and perfectly matching different patterns to create full looks, it all looked stunning on the runway. But how can you wear this look to work? Choose one piece that has a geometric pattern and pair it with a neutral color. Here are some options of work appropriate pieces at great prices.

Banana Republic skirt $69.00


Faux-Suede Geometric Print skirt $12 at Kohl's

Alfani long-sleeved geometric print shirt $35.40 at Macy's

Mossimo cap-sleeve georgette top $9.99 at Target

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Today's post is due, in part, to an e-mail that I received from a MyFashionCents.com reader. She wanted to know how to get her husband to trim his 'stache,' so that he didn't look so goofy wearing it. One thing is for certain, wearing a mustache takes a talented individual, one that isn't afraid to try out a little facial hair every now and then.

At the 66th annual Golden Globes, there was a surprising trend that nearly every attendee seemed to be sporting -- the mustache. From Sting to Darren Aronofsky (Director of The Wrestler), even Mickey Rourke, everyone seemed to be sporting some form of facial hair.

Based on these variations, I wanted to share with you a few tips on selecting the right 'stache' to fit your facial type. That way you won't be relegated to jokes about that 'dirt' on your upper-lip. Instead, you'll bask in the limelight, like many of today's celebrities!

Read a 'stache of tips' on wearing facial hair after the jump.

Mustache Styles


• Handlebar mustache: great for thin faces or someone with small facial features. Also seen on bikers. To make it look right, make sure to shave on the chin and in the lower cheek region. Finish off with a little clubman mustache wax!
  


• Fu Manchu: Great for rounder faces. This is a thin mustache and is pretty easy to grow. Simply start a mustache and add two bars on either side of the mouth. It may require some training to grow straight. With a little luck, you'll be sporting this look in no time!
  


• Horseshoe: give off a rough and tough appearance. Often confused with the Fu Manchu, you might want to steer clear of this upside down look, as it is supposed to be bad luck.
  

The key point to achieving any of these mustache styles is to keep them well groomed. This is important to remember, because like a person in need of a haircut, the mustache can grow out of control if not trimmed and maintained.

Ladies, what do you think about a man with some facial hair? Love it or lost it?

Lots of love,
Loren

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In case you hadn't heard, my husband, JR Ridinger, president and CEO of MarketAmerica.com, has been nominated by Business Leader Magazine as one of four finalists for the Triad Business Leader of the Year.

Below is a short video highlighting the contributions that JR has made throughout the past year, not to mention his philanthropic work with the Make-A-Wish foundation.




Please take a moment to cast your vote for this remarkable man, my husband! Remember, voting closes February 9, 2009 at midnight.

Love,
Loren

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I'm sure many of you saw the spectacular landing made by pilot Chelsey B. "Sully" Sullenberger. Miraculously, he was able to land the plane in the Hudson river, without causing injury to the 150 passengers onboard.

JR and I experienced this remarkable event firsthand, as we saw the plane come in and hit the water. We even had friends on the flight, who luckily survived.



"Sully" as he is nicknamed, should be commended for his bravery. Click here to view Sully's impressive resume.

Love,
Loren

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All eyes were on Barack Obama yesterday as he was sworn in as the 44th President of the United States of America. The ceremony was truly historic, and emotional for all of America--welcoming a new first family into the White House! All eyes were on Michelle Obama as well. Not only because she became the new first lady of the country yesterday, but because she has emerged as a fashion icon, and her inauguration gown choice has been highly anticipated for the past few months. Check out this video highlighting Michelle's inauguration fashion.



I love the fact that Michelle chose an up-and-coming designer for her ball gown. I also love the fact that it incorporated two HOT trends this season--a white gown with a one-shouldered cut. What do you think of Michelle's choice? Will it still look as polished 50 years from now?

Love,
Loren

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As promised, I'm keeping you up-to-date on all the Spring trends! Watercolor prints are a beautiful way to look trendy, sophisticated, and soft this Spring. I especially love the femininity of a flowy, floral watercolor dress. Designers like Zac Posen and Balenciaga showed this trend on the runway. Take a look at some of the celebrities who have worn this art inspired fashion trend!


[Image via stylelist.com]

Want to score this gorgeous look? Where to shop after the jump.



Watercolor sundress $159 at BostonProper.com

Here's a more work-friendly option:

Painted Flower Dress $22.80 at Forever21.com

If dresses aren't your thing, you can put a different spin on the trend. Try pairing a watercolor inspired tee with a sheer or tye dyed scarf and distressed jeans for a casual take on the trend.


Tees and Scarves $19.50 at American Eagle Outfitters

Love,
Loren

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Yes! As scary as it might sound acid wash is back. This is one of the biggest trends in denim for spring. The acid wash skinny jean style is one that can look cool and fresh. Check out Kate Bosworth rocking this trend. Unless you have some skinny acid wash jeans though, do not pull out your 80’s acid wash wardrobe. Go for subtle acid wash like light blue, grey and black. Pair them with a solid colored t-shirt or with a black leather jacket.


Kate Bosworth in acid wash jeans
[Image via Denimology]

Get the skinny on acid wash skinny jeans from the 80's after the jump.


Casette skinny dip jeans available at Madison Los Angeles for $133 (was $265)
[Image via Madison Los Angeles]


Bull Denim mineral wash stretch slacks available at American Apparel for $74
[Image via American Apparel]


Xhilaration button-fly skinny jeans only $11.49 at Target
[Image via Target]

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[Image via Perezhilton.com]

Check out the this photo of Lady Gaga! The Just Dance singer showcased her "unique" fashion sense while out-and-about in chilly London. She was wearing just a latex corset, her trademark bikini bottoms, and some latex open-toe boots. Do you think Gaga looks hot, or should she have risked looking less "fashionable"  and opted for a coat instead?  Personally, I like Gaga's look for the stage, but not for the streets!   Even if you  don't dig her style, she does deserve credit for being gutsy--not to mention, having the #1 song in the country right now! Get to know Gaga over on the ma My World music portal and blog!

Love,
Loren

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If you want to try out some of the great trends I've been highlighting this winter, stop by Gap.com. Right now, their entire stock of womens' outerwear (and more) is on sale, so that you can update your look without spending a lot!



The Plaid Trend:

Plaid belted coat $54

More Trends after the jump.



The Boyfriend Blazer trend:



Long tailored jacket $64.99


The Purple Trend:

Belted coat $36.99

The great thing about GAP clothing is that all of the styles are just the right balance of trendy and classic, which means you can wear the clothes longer without looking like a fashion victim.

Love,
Loren

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Lucky Magazine online is hailing 2009 as the "Year of The Brooch". According to Kim France, Lucky's editor-in-chief, stores are going to experience a significant run on brooches thanks to our stylish new First Lady elect, Michelle Obama.

[Image via New York Post]

Check out stores like Banana Republic and J. Crew for these sparkly baubles in a variety of shapes, sizes and textures, or shop ebay.com to score an authentic vintage one.

Pansy Brooch $34 at Banana Republic

Love,
Loren

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[Photo via about.com]

The nerds have declared revenge on the fashion world! Oversized, thick, black- framed eyeglasses have been gaining momentum this year, and fashion magazines are hailing them as a trend to watch for in '09. Starlets, hipsters, and a slew of celebrities from Ashley Olsen and Jay-Z are sporting this new "geek chic" trend in eyewear. What do you think of the "bookworm look"? Would you wear this trend?

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Ring in the New Year in style...and with a few extra bucks in your purse or wallet. Don't let the economy put a damper on your New Year's. Rather than go out for a pricey meal, shop local neighborhood restaurants at Restaurant.com and save 80% off by using coupon code CELEBRATE at checkout. In addition, if you purchase a minimum of $11 with this coupon code, you also receive a $25 certificate as well. This deal expires at the stroke of midnight on 12/31/08, so shop early! Get ready to "celebrate" the New Year "fashion-centsibly!"

Lots of love,
Loren

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I have a juicy bit of fashion gossip via Perezhilton.com! The latest buzz on the runway is that ultra-famous designer, Betsey Johnson, may be teaming up with H&M or Target to create a recession-friendly diffussion line!


According to Betsey Johnson CEO Chantal Bacon, "Ms. Johnson is planning a limited-edition design collaboration with a retailer that will likely launch in the fall." (She declined to offer specifics on the collaboration.) I'm hoping she chooses Target, as I love all of their designer collaboration lines. I think Betsey's funky, flirty dresses, adorable handbags, and wild patterns would be a fantastic addition to the bunch.

Love,
Loren

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Hungry for fashion? Take a bite out of Nancy Wu's edible Chanel handbag replica made out of 100% real beef jerky. That's right--BEEF JERKY!

[Image via refinery29.com]

There's no doubt that Wu, a product design student at the art center college of design in Pasadena, California; possesses a tremendous amount of imagination--not to mention, skill. Can you imagine the hours of craftsmanship that went into this?

Strange or not, you've got to give the girl credit for thinking outside the box. What do you think of Wu's creation?

Love,
Loren

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We're seeing more and more designer collaborations--that is--established fashion designers creating exclusive lines for budget retail chains. The latest designer collaboration will be happening between Project Runway 4 winner, Christian Siriano, and Payless ShoeSource! The line, a fashion-forward collection of footwear and handbags, will be unveiled during New York Fashion Week next February before becoming available in Payless stores and Payless.com in the Fall of 2009.

“I’m so excited to design and create with such an amazing brand that is all about fashion and trend but, most importantly, is also about affordability,” Christian said in a press release. “I’ve already been working with the Payless Design Team in New York, and I can’t wait to see how they will take the high- end shoes and bags I’m designing for the runway and turn them into pieces that everyone can buy. I’m all about the runway and the sidewalks!”

The designs are expected to range in price from $25 - $45.

Here's a video showcasing Siriano's designs from the season finale of Project Runway 4.


Christian Siriano is definitely a creative genius. It will be very interesting to see what he will show at Fashion Week in February. I'll keep you posted!

Love,
Loren

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High end fashion designer Charlotte Ronson is releasing a line called I "Heart" Ronson for JCPenney, set to debut in February 2009! Ronson's first collection (C. Ronson) debuted in 2000, and has recently expanded globally, with botiques in Japan and Europe. She is widely known for her vintage-inspired clothing and lingerie designs which can be found in high-end department stores, such as Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue. Her JCPenney line will be much more affordable, with prices ranging from $15 tees to $65 jackets.

[Image via New York Magazine's Fashion Blog]

“I am delighted to create a new collection, I 'Heart' Ronson for JCPenney. I see this as a great opportunity to open up my sense of fashion and style to a much wider audience,” said Ronson in the press release.

Visit Nylon Magazine online to view more photos of Ronson's new line. The clothes look adorable--very femenine and flirty. Can't wait check them out this Spring!

Love,
Loren

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I wanted to share some more exciting news for everyone. There is now an official Motives Cosmetics by Loren Ridinger Facebook Group! Click here to become a member of this exciting group!

Love,
Loren

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Check out these great videos which show some behind-the-scenes footage from the 2008 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show-- which, as you may remember-- I had the pleasure of attending a few weeks ago!




Explore the 6 different Glamour Themes of The Show.




Here's a behind the scenes look at the model fittings.



Love,
Loren

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The 90s have been making a comeback in fashion lately, and plaid workshirts are just another trend in the return of an era. Don't worry though, this season's plaid is more chic than grunge. Look for fitted styles that can be layered and worn unbuttoned over a tank or t-shirt. Styles with feminine detailing, like ruffles and pintucking are a plus too. Pair the trend with a dark, skinny jean for a cute casual look.

[Photos via: people.com]

Here are some budget-friendly options for wearing this trend.

Urban Outfitters Kimchi Blue Pintuck Plaid shirt $58

Banana Republic Silk Tie-Neck Blouse $39

Gap Ruffle Placket Plaid Top $44


Any of these plaid tops can also be layered under a blazer or cardigan for a wear-to-work outfit. You'll look savvy and stylish too!

Lots of Love,
Loren

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Make sure you set your Tivos for this one! National Geographic Explorer, Dan Buettner, author of The Blue Zones: Lessons for Living Longer From the People Who've Lived the Longest is going to be featured on the Oprah Winfrey show, airing today, 11/25!


As you are all pretty much aware, every book Oprah Winfrey touches turns to gold -- or at least goes on to become a must read! In addition to this exciting news, get the book for only $15 (normally $26) with any purchase -- this is the best deal you'll find online, as it will probably be selling out really fast for the holidays!

Love,
Loren

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In case you missed it, Rihanna was selected to be the new face for Gucci's upcoming UNICEF campaign. The collection is called "Tattoo Heart" and will be offered as a special edition to the existing Gucci lineup of products. According to Frida Giannini, Rihanna was selected for the first UNICEF campaign because of her "strong personality" and also because she believed that "a musician and a beautiful woman was the perfect icon for the campaign."

Here's a short video of the Gucci "Tattoo Heart" advertisement featuring RiRi!



Lots of love,
Loren

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I recently wrote about mantyhose the other day and received an overwhelming response! How about this getup? Mantyhose at its finest. Hot or not?

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The denim market, as we all know, is oversaturated. It is overwhelming to walk into a major department store’s denim floor. But I suggest you check out the new denim line launched this year called City of Others. These jeans are not only incredibly flattering, and at a great price, but the brand is looking to create a great sense of community and social awareness. What is great about these jeans is thateach jean comes with a bar code on the hang tag; when you plug in the numbers into this brand's website, you can donate a portion of the net profits to the charity of your choice. Charities include Invisible Children and International Medical Corps.

You can purchase the jeans at revolveclothing.com where the styles come in great dark clean washes, in shapes like skinny, trouser and flare.

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Yesterday, I received a tremendous honor; I was awarded the 2009 Woman of Substance & Style Award given by the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis. The main event will be held in March in Miami.


2009 Woman of Substance and Style

[Image via Manny Hernandez]

This particular award was given based on the following criteria; philanthropy, volunteerism, business acumen and lastly, sense of style!

Over the past year, I've worked with the Jennifer Lopez Foundation, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Mt. Sinai Hospital, the American Cancer Society, The Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation, Friends of the Orphans, along with many other causes and organizations!

Thanks to everyone for their love and support in driving me to be give back and to help others to be successful!

[Click here to read the Press Release from Yahoo]

Much love,
Loren

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Over the weekend, JR and I had the pleasure of attending the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show at the newly renovated Fontainebleau hotel with Kim Kardashian. As you may remember, Kim was the celebrity emcee for the Make-A-Wish Foundation Ball. The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show was over the top! From the lighting to the show (and who can't forget the models), it was everything you'd imagine it to be and more! It was also a great place to mingle with so many wonderful and exciting people like New York Yankee, Alex Rodriguez, good friend, Jeff Gordon, Mario Lopez, along with supermodel, Heidi Klum. In addition, Diddy was there, Russell Simmons showed up, and Usher surprised everyone, as he performed! Not only was this a super-limited engagement, but it has to be one of the finest events ever put on! I hope you enjoy the photos from this spectacular event!


The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show held in Miami Beach over the weekend


Brody Jenner, Kim Kardashian, JR Ridinger and myself at the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show [Image from Kim Kardashian's Official Website]


Kourtney Kardashian, JR and Kim Kardashian at the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show


Kim Kardashian and myself at the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show

Lots of love,
Loren

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Fashion Cents readers, rejoice! Target has just announced a brand new initiative which will bring the designs of top, established fashion designers to the price-conscious, mass market. The new program is called Designer Collaborations, and it is set to debut in March 2009.

I am so super-excited about this because the first designer who has jumped on board with the new program is none other than a VERY well-respected, designer-to-the-stars: the one-and-only, Alexander McQueen!

McQueen was chief designer for Givenchy and served as creative director at Gucci before branching out on his own. He is known for his outrageous catwalk designs, and has developed a loyal fan-following among the likes of Gwenyth Paltrow, Victoria Beckham, and Sarah Jessica Parker.

Sarah-Jessica famously wore this green dress, designed by Alexander McQueen, to the Sex and The City movie premiere back in May.

While full details of the Target line are yet to come, they have revealed that the line will feature items with the designer’s signature rock ‘n’ roll edge, including tattoo-print fabrics and studs.

I love the fact that Target has become a real destination for the fashion centsible. I'm still in love with their 'Go International' concept/collections, and I can't wait to see what else they have in store for us!

Lots of Love,
Loren

[Source: people.com]

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Remember New York Fashion Week, when I had the opportunity to see upcoming designs from the likes of Diane von Furstenberg? Well, she's back in the news!


This time, she's fighting off the notion that you don't have to be Wonder Woman to have style, nor do you need fancy bracelets to deflect bullets. Her latest collection is inspired by Diana Prince, the original Wonder Woman. Her newest collection has its influence centered around stars and stripes and muted tones. Let me know what you think!

Much love,
Loren

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Wanted to mention something really exciting before I head back to the beach! Adriana Castro just featured MyFashionCents.com on their website!



Click here to check out her website or visit her store to see the latest designs. They definitely have a great collection of handbags. What do you think?

Much love,
Loren

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Many of you may have seen my previous entry on eyeball bling. The Swarovski crystal fused contact lenses recently placed second in the Design Bloom contest that was held in September.
What won first place you might ask?

The first place winner was a Swarovski Mouse created by Jeremy Doherty, Simon Doherty and Dareen Doherty from New Zealand. Congratulations!










So what do you think about the Swarovski mouse and eyeball bling?

Lots of love,
Loren

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Have you ever been frustrated over trying to find a gift for that "visually-challenged" person who just has everything?

Well, your worrying days are over! Indian Designer, Anthony Mallier, has created ‘Sparkle’ contact lenses to make your eyes “Sparkle like they’ve never sparkled before.”

The ‘Sparkle’ contact lenses are fused with tiny Swarovski crystals in a circle around the edges of the lenses.

Mallier created the contacts as a submission to the "Crystal Vision" contest formed by DesignBoom and Swarovski.

Apparently, his literal interpretation of Crystal Vision wowed the judges--these sparkly spectacles won 2nd place overall.

Would you wear this trend?

Source: Blogstersguild.com
Love,
Loren

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Single ladies, take note! Move that little black dress to the back of your closets, and break out that fierce, sexy, red one! A new study conducted by the University of Rochester suggests that men prefer women in red because of the color's ability to trigger primal insticts that associate it with sex.

The study involved a series of experiments in which men were shown a photo of a 'moderately attractive' young woman. Read the full article here.


Fellas, don't worry...the study didn't leave you out either. Apparently, the research also suggested that men are just as irresistible to women when wearing the fiery color.

Are we surprised by this? Hasn't red always been considered the color of passion and romance?

Share your thoughts!

Love,
Loren

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Los Angeles Fashion Week wrapped up last week leaving many memorable impressions behind. There were so many new designers who blew me away with their collections, but the "environmentally-friendly" designers were the true talk of the town. These are designers who focus on producing quality, fashion-forward, 100% organic/sustainable designs.

Several of the collections feature high-quality fabrics such as organic silks, which support a natual lifestyle. I especially enjoyed The Battalion collection by Linda and Chrys Wong, which features designs made from recycled fabric. Take a look at the following eco-chic showcase presented by Gen Art and Soy Joy:




The eco-chic movement is truly wonderful! You shouldn't have to compromise your values in order to look good!

Market America also features earth-friendly partner stores like Hatley and Organic Style, making the organic shopping experience just a few keystrokes away!

I especially LOVE these tie- lounge pants (paired with a comfy hoodie) from Organic Style. They're on sale now for $68!



What are your eco-friendly picks?

Love,
Loren

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Fashion is really about self-expression, aesthetics, and having fun! But more importantly, fashion is a true art form--so what better way to pay respect to the harmony that exists between fashion and art than this?

Renowned architect, Zaha Hadid, has created a mobile art exhibition containing several designs created by a variety of modern, contemporary artists. The designs are inspired by the iconic Chanel quilted handbag that was created by Mademoiselle Chanel 50 years ago!

I'm so excited about this because the traveling exhibit is making its only stop in the U.S. in Central Park until Nov. 9th! It will then move on to London, Moscow and Paris. This is a wonderful opportunity to see what will surely be considered an important piece of fashion history. Plus, admission is FREE, as long as you book in advance at the on-site ticket booth.

Hadid Lagerfeld

Let me know what you think of this exhibit! Is it astonishing or ridiculous?

Lots of Love,

Loren

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I am sad to report that Richard Blackwell--better known as "Mr. Blackwell"--passed away Sunday at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center of complications from an intestinal infection.

Mr. Blackwell was best known for inventing the annual "Worst Dressed" list, in which he candidly criticized celebrities' poor fashion choices. Part of his notoriety and appeal came from his brutally honest opinions, when it came to fashion. According to the times online, Blackwell once explained his position, “The list is and was a satirical look at the fashion flops of the year,” he said in 1998. “I merely said out loud what others were whispering . . . it’s not my intention to hurt the feelings of these people. It’s to put down the clothing they’re wearing.”

Blackwell famously critiqued everyone from Cameron Diaz to The Queen of England. For many years, Mr. Blackwell's annual list was a highly anticipated media event. There's no doubt that the fashion world will surely miss this icon.

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Fringe is a fun, new trend that can be easily incorporated into your wardrobe with cool accessories like fringe-trimmed boots and handbags. You'll gain instant boho-chic appeal, without looking costumey--or worse yet, like a fashion victim!

For a sophisticated, fringed look like Amber's (see below), leave all fringey accessories out of the picture.

Joie boot available at shopbop.com
















Foley & Corinna dress available at thehipchick.com










Let me know how you would you wear this trend!

Love,

Loren

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Fall is finally here, and lately I've been obsessing over my favorite fall neutral--purple! The jewel-tone is just as hot this fall season as it was last, and it has been popping up everywhere: from makeup, to clothing, to my personal favorite: accessories.

In the past, purple wouldn't have been considered a neutral, but the great thing about this color is that it seems to work well with just about any fall look.One word of advice though: never go head-to-toe purple! The key to wearing purple as a basic this season, is to either do it subtly, or as a complementing element to an outfit.

Pair a funky purple handbag or purple shoes with a monochromatic outfit (like black) or add a punch of color to your wardrobe in the form of blue-violet nail polish or a deep, plum-toned scarf/headwrap like the one by Lacoste seen here on the runway:
















[Photo from Elle.com]

Check out these purple handbags that I found at ShopBop.com by Marc Jacobs. This clutch was only $278








Clutch by Marc Jacobs $278













Puma Bag $110

If you'd rather not splurge on the luxe Marc Jacobs, don't fret...this is "fashioncents" after all and you can get a similar look for less at Target!








Mossimo clutch $19.99

Target also has a great selection of various purple accessories to kick up your fall look! Shop now until Dec 30, and receive $5 off any purchase of $50 or more.


Lots of love,
Loren

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If there is one thing that I learned from Fashion Week, it is that fashion is about being daring. Daring can mean wearing a bright color in the fall or as in the case of Aminaka Wilmont’s designs, wearing shoes that thread the line between comfortable and fashionable.

Over on PerezHilton.com, Hollywood’s ‘gossip gangster’ found these shocking shoes that will be part of Aminaka Wilmont’s upcoming Spring/Summer 2009 collection.













Love it’ or Leave it’? Leave a comment below!

I'd say...different, but I love it!' Such a unique style!

Perez, thanks for this gem!

[Via PerezHilton.com]

Love,
Loren

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The other day as I was standing in line at the grocery store, I couldn't help but notice all of the different types of magazines on the rack. People, Time, Glamour, Sports Illustrated, even cooking magazines! What is interesting though is that these magazines often sell for their cover price of nearly $4 each! If you really come to think about it, you're paying quite a bit more for magazines (not to mention, the time to drive to the store, plus the price of gas). Rather than spend a good portion of your hard-earned money on magazines, there is a better way...

Taking a different approach does not necessarily mean that you have to give up something that you like. Had I taken the normal route of buying a magazine off the rack for $4 (for 56 total issues), I would have spent nearly $225 overall for a year! Shopping through Magazines.com (a partner store) for Time magazine though, I spent only $29.95 (for 56 total issues). That saved me almost $200 (and allowed me to get that new dress I had been eyeing at Bloomingdales). Oh yeah, I still managed to have some money leftover. By shopping through my web portal, I shopped smarter and also continue to receive the magazines I love to read on a regular basis.

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The other night, JR and I had a fabulous idea, let’s rent a movie! Rather than trudging to the local movie rental store, we joined Netflix, an online movie rental site instead. Not only were we able to setup a rental queue to ensure that we had a non-stop flow of movies delivered right to our mailbox, but we were also able to watch certain movies from our laptops as well at no additional cost! Besides offering the latest in DVD releases, they also carry Blu-ray and HD-DVD rentals and offer many different monthly programs to choose from. We settled on the three-at-a-time plan (and unlimited monthly rentals) for only $16.99 per month! We are really enjoying the service so far. We no longer have to drive to the store only to find out that a movie is out of stock. In addition, returning movies is simple; just drop them in the mailbox.

Anyone looking for a quick and painless process for renting movies should try out this phenomenal service!

Just for love,
Loren

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You’ve been talking and we’ve been listening! Recently, we’ve received a flood of e-mails wanting to know when we were going to bring younger trendy and modern stores to our web portal. This past week over on MA Blogs, we recently announced a new store called Urban Outfitters.

Anyone with kids knows that Urban Outfitters offers clothing that is trendy, comfortable, and very affordable. What amazed me so much about this new store was the fact that their clothing not only looked great, but it also won’t put a strain on your wallet! For around $58.00, I found a Drapey Deep V Dress that not only is fun to wear, but will also earn you IBV in the process! For a more summery outfit, they also offer a nice selection of Tie Dye Slips priced at only $38.00! Great for a night on the town or just going out with your girlfriends, look great and save money in the process!

Just for love,
Loren

Drapey Deep V Dress

Tie Dye Slip (also available in other colors)

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Here are the pictures of the cute spring dresses I bought at Saks Fifth Avenue. Check them out!!!

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